A development during the meeting was the announcement of the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s (MSBA) scheduled monthly site visits. The first visit is set for March 11. This development is critical for maintaining oversight and ensuring the project aligns with MSBA standards. The Owner’s Project Manager (OPM) emphasized the significance of these visits, as the OAC group continues to report weekly to the MSBA on the project’s status.

Another focal point was the need for the building committee’s approval of the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), which exceeded the $50,000 threshold. There was an urgency expressed to convene a meeting to discuss and approve Fontaine’s draft GMP for both the school and pool projects. This approval is important for keeping the project timeline intact, and a virtual meeting was proposed for the following Thursday to expedite the process. Members acknowledged the necessity of this meeting to address the financial aspects of the project and ensure that it progresses without unnecessary delays.

The construction schedule was another area of focus, with updates provided on various phases of the project. Underground plumbing in Building D had been finalized, and work was ongoing in Building E. The construction team anticipated commencing underground electrical work soon, contingent on material availability. Metal stud installation is projected to begin in mid-March, and coordination efforts for fireproofing and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are ongoing. These updates reflect the project’s forward momentum and the strategic planning involved in its execution.

Discussions about the furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FFE) budget highlighted financial challenges and decision-making processes. Initially set at $1.6 million, the furniture budget was increased by $100,000, sourced from the IT budget, bringing the total to $1.67 million. A committee of department heads is tasked with reviewing and finalizing furniture requests. The process involves evaluating existing furniture for potential reuse, particularly items recently updated by departments like IT and ELCAT. This careful consideration is important for managing the budget while addressing the project’s needs.

The equipment budget presented similar challenges. Initially assumed to be $560,000, it has increased to $855,000 due to various allowances. Conversations revolved around the potential salvage of items such as musical instruments and graphics equipment to mitigate costs. The timeline for finalizing procurement decisions is critical, with a goal to complete specifications by August, enabling the bidding process in December. This timeline ensures alignment with the projected delivery and installation schedule for the following summer.

Progress toward lead certification was also discussed, with updates on the credits required for the project. The district aims to secure 65 credits, surpassing the minimum requirement of 50, to meet MSBA expectations. Achieving additional points in the lead certification could potentially yield over a million dollars in reimbursement for the district, emphasizing the financial and environmental significance of this aspect. The committee discussed the use of low-emission materials and the implications for long-term durability and cost. Blower door testing, a component of the lead process, was also addressed, with suggestions made to engage relevant testing agents to ensure compliance.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on scheduling future meetings, including a tentative plan for another meeting in April, carefully avoiding the school vacation week. The importance of continued collaboration and communication among all team members was emphasized throughout the discussions. The meeting was adjourned following the approval of motions and a roll call vote.